As California's population grew, so did
its need for society and culture. Homesickness and intense loneliness burdened gold rush
miners. They were often separated from family and friends, and sought diversions to escape
the harsh realities of their lives. Entertainment of many kinds was eagerly pursued.
Itinerant musicians traveled to mining camps. Canvas theaters were erected, and larger
halls and grand theaters opened in the cities. The playbill might include a group of
musicians, a lone singer, a child actor, a performance of opera or Shakespeare, or even a
fight between a grizzly bear and a bull. But rough and tumble miners could be fickle: they
could toss gold coins on the stage or garbage!